If you’re looking for an easy underwear sewing pattern or wondering how to sew your own underwear, you’re in the right place! Sewing panties is actually one of the most beginner-friendly and satisfying projects you can make - and with the right pattern, it’s quick, fun, and totally doable at home.
In this post, I’ll walk you through how to sew underwear step-by-step using my new Lila Panties sewing pattern, designed especially for beginners who want a comfy, stylish fit without the fuss. Whether you're searching for DIY underwear patterns, stretch fabric sewing tips or just want to learn how to make your own knickers, I’ve got you covered.
Meet the Lila Panties
The Lila Panties sewing pattern is my latest pattern designed especially with beginners in mind. They’re comfy, flattering and have a simple construction that makes them perfect for anyone new to sewing lingerie. Whether you're a total newbie or just want a quick and satisfying make, I got you!!
Why you'll love them:
- Soft, stretchy fit with adaptable bum coverage options
- Super scrap-friendly, perfect for leftover jersey
- No fussy seams or confusing instructions
- Comes with easy step-by-step instructions
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Has a regular and a high waist fit option!
You can grab the Lila Panties sewing pattern here
What You’ll Need
I used to think you’d need a million items to sew underwear professionally but the truth is, you really don’t. I’ve listed below some key items you might already have in your sewing stash!
- Lila Panties Pattern
- Stretch fabric like cotton jersey (you’ll need less than 0.5m)
- Scissors
- Thread
- Ballpoint or stretch needled (to prevent skipped stitches!)
- Clips or pins
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Picot elastic or stretch lace trim (between 2-3m)
How to Sew Underwear Easily
1. Print and cut out your pattern
Download and print your Lila Panties sewing pattern here at home (A4 or US letter size). Make sure you print at 100% scale and check the test square to be sure! This pattern is super simple to print out and is only 6 pages per fit option. You can also print the A0 pattern at a printing company or use the sewing projector file included to cut directly onto your fabric. Once printed, pin the pattern to your fabric following the layout in the instructions. You’ll have a front, back and two gussets.
2. Assemble the gusset
We line the gusset in the Lila Panties pattern so in the instructions and this YouTube video, you’ll be able to see how easy it is to use the Burrito method to fully conceal the gusset seams. It makes a professional look from the inside and is very comfortable to wear.
3. Attach your elastic
This part might seem tricky at first, but take it slow and you’ll find it’s actually really fun. I like to use picot elastic along the front and back waist as well as the inner leg but you can use stretch lace trim or even fold over elastic. After you’ve sewn the elastic, use duckbill scissors or regular scissors to trim the seam allowance close to the stitching line.
4. Sew the side seams
With right sides together, sew the side seams of the underwear. I also like to finish the seam with an overlocker but this is entirely optional as knit fabric doesn’t fray. Press the seams towards the back and admire your almost-done undies! The last step is to reinforce the seams and I show you exactly how to do that in the Lila Panties instructions, to give you extra longevity when wearing.
5. Try them on and smile!
You just made your own underwear! How cool is that!? Try them on and see how they feel. You can tweak the fit next time if needed, but most people find Lila comfy on the first go!
Beginner-Friendly Tips
🧵 Don’t skip the stretch needle – it makes all the difference.
🧵 Start slow – especially when sewing elastic, don’t rush.
🧵 Have fun with colours and prints – go wild! Undies are the perfect project for fabric scraps.
Sewing your own underwear is such a joyful little win. It’s quick, empowering, and a fab way to practise sewing with stretch fabrics. Plus, once you get the hang of it, you’ll never want to go back to shop-bought undies again!
The Lila Panties sewing pattern is here to make the whole process easy and enjoyable. Grab your copy here, dig into your fabric stash and start stitching up some dreamy, handmade lingerie. Let me know in the comments if you’ve tried it, and don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @tammy.handmade so I can see your gorgeous makes!